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Electrochemically and Bioelectrochemically Induced Ammonium Recovery
Published on: January 22, 2015
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Electrochemically and bioelectrochemically induced ammonium recovery.
Sylvia Gildemyn1, Amanda K Luther2, Stephen J Andersen1
1Laboratory of Microbial Ecology and Technology (LabMET), Ghent University.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|February 5, 2015
Summary
Ammonium can be recovered from waste streams using electrochemical and bioelectrochemical systems. These methods enable nutrient reuse in agriculture and chemistry by extracting ammonium and converting it to ammonia.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Electrochemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Ammonium-rich streams (urine, manure) pose disposal challenges.
- Ammonium recovery offers valuable nutrient reuse for agriculture and chemistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate ammonium extraction from waste streams using electrochemical and bioelectrochemical systems.
- To compare the efficiency and energy input of both systems for ammonium recovery.
Main Methods:
- Utilized potentiostat-controlled electrochemical and bioelectrochemical cells.
- Employed a cation exchange membrane for ammonium transport.
- Stripped and captured ammonia from the catholyte.
Main Results:
- Quantified ammonium flux across the membrane at varying concentrations and currents.
- Compared current and removal efficiencies for both reactor types.
- Evaluated energy input for ammonium transfer.
Conclusions:
- Both electrochemical and bioelectrochemical systems effectively recover ammonium.
- Comparative analysis highlights differences in reliability, cost, and rate.
- Provides a protocol for conducting ammonia recovery experiments.
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